Mathematics Strategy with Kieran Mackle, Ep. 40 (S2E15)

For this episode, Tom Sherrington and Emma Turner chat with Kieran Mackle, an author, podcast host, and primary school maths leader.

The conversation begins with a discussion on mathematics strategy for teachers. Kieran’s most recent book, Thinking Deeply About Primary Mathematics, discusses hundreds of strategies for teachers with researched and practiced methodologies. One major topic that Tom, Emma, and Kieran discuss is the structural discourse around maths education and foundational learning, particularly pedagogical differences concerning mental maths and formal algorithm. Kieran puts forth a system of using consistency as a goal for a national curriculum that focuses on skill generation and mathematical fluency rather than content coverage. Kieran’s philosophy largely stems from mathematical maturation, a concept from Mark McCourt’s book Teaching For Mastery, a seminal work on the subject. 

Later in the discussion, the group focuses on scheme implementation in primary mathematics. Kieran focuses primarily on the power of time when it comes to introducing pedagogical schemes into primary learning. Taking time to decide on a scheme and evaluate its potency is essential. 

Lastly, the group discusses Kieran’s podcast, Thinking Deeply About Primary Education [TDAPE]. The podcast includes discussions between Kieran, Lloyd, and other familiar guests to the MTG audience, such as Christopher Such, about matters of pedagogy and policy, with sporadic long-form interviews with industry experts, diving into the nitty-gritty of practice, policy, communication, assessment and more. 

Mind the Gap is presented by John Catt Educational, a leading independent publisher that has supported teachers and school leaders with research-based, easy-to-use professional development publications since 1959. Learn more about books from Tom, Emma, and many other world-class authors at us.johncattbookshop.com (US) or johncattbookshop.com (International).

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